Air Conditioners For Condos
Many modern apartments and condos do not have air conditioning systems built in. They do have floor-to-ceiling windows which offer amazing views, but let in too much sunlight and heat.
If your building has ductwork, then a central AC could be the best option. However, if it doesn’t, the HVAC contractors Brick interviewed said that the majority of board are now welcoming ductless mini-splits.
1. Window Units
Window air conditioners are a cheap and easy way to cool your apartment without the need for ductwork. They take warm air out of the room and replace it with cooler air. This makes them a good option for those on a budget or older homes without ductwork. However, they do have a few drawbacks and should be considered prior to purchasing.
Window ACs are confined to cooling one room, so they’re not a good choice for larger homes. They also consume plenty of energy, making it important to look for models with high Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER) ratings or Energy Star certifications. They could also pose a security threat, as they can be easily removed, permitting easy access to your home.
Depending on the size of the unit and the kind of window it’s placed in, you may need to put in accordions or even wood to block any space around both sides of the window. Most window units come with an installation kit for windows which you can use to install them yourself by sliding the chassis into the window and then attaching the sleeve to the outside of the window frame. For larger models that have higher BTU capacity, the chassis is designed to slide between rails and the sleeve is attached to the frame using brackets that hold it to the window.
To determine the size unit you will require by multiplying the square footage by the number BTUs required to cool the room. To maximize efficiency, think about whether the room receives lots of sunlight or is on an upper floor. A larger unit is more expensive, but will help you save money on energy over time. Our HVAC experts suggest investing in central AC for an investment that will last for a long time. Although the initial cost is higher, it will be able to pay for itself over time with lower monthly utilities and a longer life span than multiple window units.
2. Portable Units
Portable air conditioners are standalone cooling systems that function as space heaters. The units are designed to plug into an outlet and a tube, also known as a mini-duct, is able to be run through the window to let CO2 and heat out (not to confuse with the poisonous gas CO2). The units can be moved from room to room, and are typically sized according to their cooling capacity, which is determined by BTU ratings. For the best results, the unit should be designed to fit in the space it is intended for, as oversized units won’t provide adequate cooling and can be more prone to wear down than.
They are typically in apartments or converted homes that do not have ducting systems and in which the central AC unit is the main cooling system. The use of portable ACs in one or more rooms can reduce the workload on the central system, which can save energy and money.
The most effective portable units have a dehumidifier setting to decrease moisture. This is a common reason for hot spots, and can cause the room to feel uncomfortable. The units should also come with washable filters to ensure efficiency and remote controls for effortless operation. Select energy STAR certified models to save money and electricity when compared to non-certified units.
If you decide to go portable, it is crucial to choose an hose-to-hose system instead of a one-hose model. Dual-hose models draw outside air through the condenser coils and then blow it out using the other hose. This improves the efficiency and reduces the sound level of the unit. It might cost more to purchase a portable unit with this feature, but it could be worth the cost in terms of savings and the comfort.
4. Ductless Systems
Mini-splits are ductless alternatives to central air conditioners. They comprise an outdoor unit, and one or more indoor units which are connected by thin piping that functions as electrical wires through small holes in your walls. Ductless systems are an excellent option for condos since they can be installed in places where traditional HVAC ducts cannot. This makes them a great cooling option for a lot of Southwest Florida homes and condominiums, since homeowners often don’t want to cut into the walls and floors to install ductwork.
In the case of a ductless cooling system the indoor unit cools the air as it moves through tubing filled with refrigerant from the outdoor unit. The air conditioner is quieter than conventional alternatives and allows you to cool your space without disturbing other. Some ductless systems can also provide heating which means you can enjoy all year round comfort.
The ductless system is perfect for a variety of spaces, such as sunrooms, garages, and bedrooms. They can also enhance comfort for older houses or condos that don’t have ductwork. This type of system is also suitable for multifamily housing because it can easily adapt to various occupancy patterns and requirements.
In addition that, a ductless system could be more energy efficient than conventional systems, as it does not need to push air over long distances. It can also lower your electric bills. They are also smaller than forced-air systems, which means they can reduce the cost of installation and space.
Ductless systems are an excellent choice to replace obtrusive window air conditioners in condo buildings because they provide superior cooling performance and customized temperature control. They can improve the air quality in your apartment, in addition with a highly efficient filtering system that can remove harmful particles from the air. This helps you stay away from asthma and allergies and keeps your home at a comfortable temperature all season. If you are ready to learn more about the benefits of installing a ductless system in your condominium, contact us now! Our experienced technicians are ready to assist you. We can assess your requirements and help you determine the best air conditioning solution for your specific situation.